Early Durham

Georgian Durham ◄

Victorian Durham

Modern Durham

Durham's Black History

Art in The Museum

Brass Rubbing

Special Exhibition

There are displays about Georgian Durham describing town & country houses, theatres and transport. One impressive country house that is featured is Burn Hall.

The noted northern architect Ignatius Bonomi designed Burn Hall in 1821 for the Salvin family of Croxdale. It replaced an earlier hall but was built on a more elevated site.

Our display on Durham theatres includes information on Stephen Kemble, a manager in the early years of the 19th century. He was a member of the Kemble family which dominated the English theatrical scene at that time.

With his connections, he brought many of the greatest stars of the London stage to Durham. Kemble's home was The Grove which is now part of Durham School.

Prisoners were originally held in the North Gate of Durham Castle. However, in 1808, the Durham Justices decided to build a new courthouse and gaol in New Elvet. The courthouse was opened in 1811.